Uncover the unexpected in North Central Florida! Gainesville isn’t like any other place in Florida. Our combination of college-town vitality and protected natural beauty makes us one of a kind—a place “where nature and culture meet.” Gainesville offers 30+ miles of biking and hiking trails while spotting wildlife like birds, bison, wild horses or alligators in seven area Florida State Parks. Canoe or paddleboard our scenic rivers or take a dive into one of our crystal-clear freshwater springs. Floating down the spring-fed river at Ichetucknee Springs State Park is a can’t miss warm-weather tradition.